Bastille Day, also known as French National Day, is celebrated on July 14th each year to commemorate the storming of the Bastille in 1789, a key moment in the French Revolution.
The day is marked by a grand military parade on the Champs-Elysées in the presence of the French President, attracting crowds from all over the world.
In Paris and in cities throughout France, this grand popular celebration features spectacular fireworks displays and lively street parties, especially in fire stations. The festivities continue into the night with numerous outdoor concerts and music performances, showcasing a wide range of music genres from classical to techno, rock, and world music.
As a symbol of good luck, French people also exchange sprigs of lily-of-the-valley, known as “muguet,” with family, friends, and colleagues.
Bastille Day is a time for the French people to come together to celebrate their national identity, history, and culture, as well as to reflect on the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity that are at the heart of the French Republic.